What To Look For In Dog Food Ingredients [& What To Avoid]

I get it.

It can be so hard to find good quality dog food.

There are so many options and so much conflicting advice out there.

And if you’re anything like me, you’ve already spent enough time trying to ensure your dog gets the best of the best.

After trying countless dog food brands, talking to numerous vets, and doing extensive research, I’ve learned what makes good dog food. 

So, here is what you really need to look for in dog food brands, products and ingredients.

What Ingredients Are Good For Dogs In Dog Food?

Ingredients that are good for dogs include high-quality proteins (chicken, beef, fish), whole grains (brown rice, barley), vegetables (carrots, peas), healthy fats (omega-3 from fish oil), vitamins, and minerals.

Protein

Protein is an essential nutrient for dogs.

It plays a crucial role in their overall health and development, including muscle growth, tissue repair, and immune function.

As a dog owner, paying special attention to the protein sources in your dog’s food is important.

Here’s a more in-depth look at why protein is so important and what to look for:

Why Is Protein Important?

Dogs, especially growing puppies and active adults, need a good amount of protein in their diet.

Amino acids, the building blocks of protein, are essential for various bodily functions, such as:

1. Building and repairing muscles, skin, and fur
2. Producing hormones and enzymes
3. Supporting a healthy immune system

Since dogs can’t produce all the necessary amino acids on their own, they need to get them from their diet. That’s where high-quality protein sources come in.

High-Quality Protein Sources

When choosing dog food, pay close attention to the protein sources listed on the label.

High-quality protein sources are easier for your dog to digest and provide a better balance of essential amino acids. Here are some examples of excellent protein sources to look for:

• Real meat: Chicken, beef, fish, turkey, and lamb are all great sources of protein. Look for these ingredients listed as the first ingredient on the label.
• Eggs: Eggs are a highly digestible and complete protein source, providing all the essential amino acids your dog needs.
• Organ meats: Organ meats, such as liver and kidney, are rich in protein and packed with nutrients that can benefit your dog’s health.

What Protein To Avoid

Not all protein sources are created equal.

Here are some ingredients you’ll want to avoid when looking at protein in dog food:

• Meat by-products or meat meals: These are lower-quality protein sources, often made from leftover parts of animals that are not considered suitable for human consumption. They may contain less protein and more indigestible material, which can be harder for your dog to process.
• Unidentified meat or poultry: If the label doesn’t specify the type of meat (e.g., “meat meal” or “poultry by-product”), it’s best to avoid it. These ingredients can be made from a variety of low-quality sources and may not provide the necessary nutrients for your dog.

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are an important component of your dog’s diet, providing them with the energy they need for their daily activities.

While dogs don’t require carbs as a primary source of energy like humans do, including the right types of carbs in their diet can offer numerous health benefits.

Let’s dive deeper into carbohydrates and learn what to look for when choosing a dog food.

The Role of Carbohydrates In Your Dog’s Diet

In addition to energy, carbs also offer other health benefits, such as:

1. Aiding in digestion: Fiber, a type of carbohydrate, helps maintain a healthy digestive system by promoting regular bowel movements and supporting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.
2. Supporting brain function: Some carbs, like whole grains, provide essential nutrients that help support your dog’s cognitive function.

Good Carbohydrate Sources

When looking for a dog food that includes healthy carbohydrates, focus on whole, unprocessed ingredients that are easy to digest and provide essential nutrients.

Some examples of good carbohydrate sources include:

• Whole grains: Brown rice, barley, and oats are all examples of whole grains that provide a good balance of nutrients and are gentle on your dog’s digestive system.
• Gluten-free options: If your dog has a sensitivity to gluten, consider dog foods that use gluten-free grains like quinoa or millet, or starchy vegetables like sweet potatoes and peas.
• Fruits and vegetables: Fruits and veggies, such as apples, carrots, and pumpkins, provide natural sources of carbohydrates, along with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Carbohydrates to Avoid

While some carbohydrates are beneficial, others may not offer the same health benefits and can even cause digestive issues in some dogs.

Here are a few types of carbohydrates to avoid:

• Refined grains: Ingredients like white rice, white flour, and cornmeal are examples of refined grains that have been stripped of their nutrients and fiber, making them less beneficial for your dog.
• Corn, wheat, and soy: These ingredients are common allergens and can be difficult for some dogs to digest, leading to gastrointestinal issues and food sensitivities.
• Artificial additives and fillers: Some dog foods may include artificial ingredients or fillers like corn syrup, which offer little to no nutritional value and can contribute to weight gain and other health problems.

Fats

Fats play a critical role in your dog’s diet, providing energy, supporting nutrient absorption, and maintaining healthy skin and coat.

However, not all fats are created equal, and it’s important to know which ones are beneficial and which to avoid.

Let’s delve deeper into the world of fats and learn what to look for in your dog’s food.

The Benefits of Good Fats

Healthy fats offer numerous benefits for your canine companion, such as:

1. Energy: Fats are a concentrated source of energy, providing more than double the calories per gram compared to proteins and carbohydrates.
2. Nutrient absorption: Fats help your dog absorb fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K, which are essential for various bodily functions.
3. Skin and coat health: Essential fatty acids, such as omega-3 and omega-6, help maintain a shiny coat and healthy skin, reducing the likelihood of dryness, itching, and irritation.
4. Brain function: Omega-3 fatty acids, in particular, play an important role in cognitive development and brain function.

Healthy Fat Sources

When looking for a dog food that includes healthy fats, focus on high-quality, natural sources that balance essential fatty acids.

Some examples of good fat sources include:

1. Animal fats: High-quality animal fats, like chicken fat or salmon oil, are easily digestible and provide a good balance of